1980 Renault 12 vs. 1964 Volvo 120
To start off, 1980 Renault 12 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Volvo 120 (67 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Volvo 120 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1964 Volvo 120 (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1964 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 12 | 1964 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 12 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 45 L |
